Apparatus for retaining a radiographic sensor during dental x-ray imaging

An apparatus for retaining a radiographic sensor element for positioning within the mouth, comprising:

• a bite block;
• a first jaw member extending from said bite block;
• a movable second jaw member slidably engaged with said bite block;
• and
• a threaded member engaged between said second jaw member and said bite block, and configured for providing continuously variable distance adjustment for retaining a radiographic sensor between said first jaw member and said second jaw member in response to the rotation of said threaded member.

An apparatus for retaining a radiographic sensor element, comprising:

• a bite block;
• a first jaw member extending from said bite block;
• a second jaw member slidably engaged with said bite block and positioned in opposition to said first jaw member;
• a threadable member engaged between said second jaw member and said bite block and configured for adjusting the distance between said first jaw member and said second jaw member;
• and
• an alignment guide extending from said bite block.

In a holder for a dental radiographic sensor having a second jaw member which moved along a predetermined number of ratcheted positions for friction-based securement in relation to a first jaw member which extends from a bite block forming the body of said holder, wherein the improvement comprises:

• eliminating the ratcheted retention of said second jaw member;
• configuring said second jaw member to provide continuously variable slidable engagement with said bite block;
• and
• engaging a threaded member between said second jaw member and said bite block;
• wherein said threaded member is adapted for providing continuously variable adjustment of the distance between said first jaw member and said second jaw member for providing secure retention of a radiographic sensor.